Connection device for holding an object, such as a key, dog tag, and the like

ABSTRACT

A connector ring includes a body with first and second ring portions. Each ring portion is configured to extend through the item opening of a corresponding item. The first ring portion includes a wire coil that is defined by wire sections and includes an overlapped coil segment. The body is configured such that the wire sections are yieldably shiftable away from each other along the overlapped coil segment to define a space through which the corresponding item can move along a coil axis. One of the wire sections turns off axis relative to the other wire section at a location to form an offset end portion that extends away from the overlapped coil segment. The wire sections are configured for prying engagement by the corresponding item generally at the location to facilitate shifting of the wire sections away from one another along the overlapped coil segment.

RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/420,440, filed Nov. 10, 2016, entitled CONNECTION DEVICE FOR HOLDING AN OBJECT, SUCH AS A KEY, DOG TAG, AND THE LIKE, and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/434,947, filed Dec. 15, 2016, entitled CONNECTION DEVICE FOR HOLDING AN OBJECT, SUCH AS A KEY, DOG TAG, AND THE LIKE, each of which is hereby incorporated in its entirety by reference herein.

BACKGROUND 1. Field

The present invention relates generally to ring-shaped devices to hold one or more items. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention concern a ring connector operable to removably receive and hold multiple items. In some embodiments, the ring connector is used to removably mount an identification tag onto the ring of a pet collar.

2. Discussion of Prior Art

Circular split rings are conventional and have long been used to hold one or more items, such as keys. Prior art circular split rings are also frequently used to mount one or more identification tags on a pet collar. The known circular split ring commonly includes a unitary piece of wire coiled into a helix shape with wire sections that overlap and engage each other. The wire follows a circular axis along its entire length and presents opposite wire ends. The overlapping wire sections can be flexed away from each other to form a space therebetween. By flexing the overlapping wire sections apart, an item can be passed through the space to mount or remove the item relative to the split ring.

However, prior art split rings have a number of deficiencies. For instance, the overlapping sections of a split ring are generally difficult to pry apart. The sections are arranged in tight conforming engagement with one another to restrict inadvertent separation of overlapping wire sections and to restrict the split ring from inadvertently snagging an external object. These features associated with conventional split rings contribute to the difficulty commonly associated with engaging the wire sections of the split ring and moving the sections apart.

SUMMARY

The following brief summary is provided to indicate the nature of the subject matter disclosed herein. While certain aspects of the present invention are described below, the summary is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

Embodiments of the present invention provide a connector ring that does not suffer from the problems and limitations of the prior art split rings set forth above.

A first aspect of the present invention concerns a connector ring operable to removably connect items that each present an item opening. The connector ring broadly includes a body with first and second ring portions. Each ring portion is configured to extend through the item opening of a corresponding item. The first ring portion includes a wire coil that presents a longitudinal coil axis. The wire coil is defined by wire sections and includes an overlapped coil segment along which the wire sections extend axially alongside one another to restrict movement of the corresponding item along the coil axis. The body is configured such that the wire sections are yieldably shiftable away from each other along the overlapped coil segment to define a space through which the corresponding item can move along the coil axis. One of the wire sections turns off axis relative to the other wire section at a location to form an offset end portion that extends away from the overlapped coil segment. The wire sections are configured for prying engagement by the corresponding item generally at the location to facilitate shifting of the wire sections away from one another along the overlapped coil segment.

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following detailed description of the embodiments and the accompanying drawing figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

Preferred embodiments of the invention are described in detail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective of a connector ring constructed in accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the present invention, showing a base ring portion and a coil ring portion, with the coil ring portion including a coil with wire sections that overlap one another and are yieldably shiftable away from each other;

FIG. 2 is an elevation of the connector ring shown in FIG. 1, showing offset end portions of the wire sections overlapping one another;

FIG. 3 is a cross section of the connector ring taken along line 3-3 in FIG. 2, showing the wire sections in engagement with one another;

FIG. 4 is a perspective of the connector ring shown in FIGS. 1-3, also showing an identification tag to be mounted on the ring;

FIG. 5 is a perspective of the connector ring and tag similar to FIG. 4, but showing the wire sections shifted away from each other so that the offset end portions cooperatively form a ring opening, with the ring opening permitting the tag to be shifted onto one of the offset end portions;

FIGS. 6-8 include other views of the connector ring and tag as shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 9 is a perspective of the connector ring and tag similar to FIG. 5, but showing the tag advanced onto an overlapping coil segment where the tag extends through a space defined between the overlapping wire sections;

FIGS. 10-12 include other views of the connector ring and tag as shown in FIG. 9;

FIG. 13 is an elevation of the connector ring and tag similar to FIG. 11, but showing the tag advanced along the overlapping coil segment to another location where the tag extends through the space defined between the overlapping wire sections;

FIG. 14 is a perspective of the connector ring and tag similar to FIG. 9, but showing the tag advanced away from the overlapping coil segment and onto the base ring portion, with the wire sections being returned to engagement with each other;

FIG. 15 is a perspective of the connector ring and tag similar to FIG. 14, but also showing a pet collar with a collar ring to be attached to the connector ring;

FIG. 16 is a perspective of the connector ring, tag, and pet collar similar to FIG. 15, but showing the wire sections shifted away from each other so that the offset end portions present a ring opening, with the ring opening permitting the collar ring to be shifted onto one of the offset end portions;

FIGS. 17-19 include other fragmentary views of the connector ring, tag, and pet collar as shown in FIG. 16;

FIG. 20 is a fragmentary perspective of the connector ring, tag, and pet collar similar to FIG. 16, but showing the collar ring advanced onto the overlapping coil segment where the collar ring extends through the space defined between the overlapping wire sections;

FIGS. 21 and 22 include other fragmentary views of the connector ring, tag, and pet collar as shown in FIG. 20;

FIG. 23 is a fragmentary perspective of the connector ring, tag, and pet collar similar to FIG. 20, but showing the collar ring advanced along the overlapping coil segment to another location where the collar ring extends through the space defined between the overlapping wire sections;

FIG. 24 is a fragmentary perspective of the connector ring, tag, and pet collar similar to FIG. 23, but taken from the opposite side;

FIG. 25 is a fragmentary perspective of the connector ring, tag, and pet collar similar to FIG. 23, but showing the collar ring advanced away from the overlapping coil segment and onto the base ring portion;

FIG. 26 is a fragmentary perspective of the connector ring, tag, and pet collar similar to FIG. 25, but taken from the opposite side;

FIG. 27 is a fragmentary perspective of the connector ring, tag, and pet collar similar to FIG. 25, but showing the wire sections shifted away from each other so that the offset end portions cooperatively form a ring opening, with the collar ring shifted into the ring opening to allow subsequent movement of the collar ring to either the base ring portion or the coil ring portion;

FIGS. 28 and 29 include other fragmentary views of the connector ring, tag, and pet collar as shown in FIG. 27;

FIG. 30 is a perspective of the connector ring, tag, and pet collar similar to FIG. 27, but showing the collar ring shifted onto the coil ring portion;

FIG. 31 is a cross section of the connector ring, tag, and pet collar shown in FIG. 30;

FIG. 32 is a perspective of a connector ring constructed in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the present invention, showing an alternative base ring portion and an alternative coil ring portion, with the coil ring portion including a coil with wire sections that overlap one another and are yieldably shiftable away from each other;

FIG. 33 is an elevation of the connector ring shown in FIG. 32;

FIG. 34 is a perspective of a connector ring constructed in accordance with a third preferred embodiment of the present invention, showing a base ring portion and an alternative coil ring portion, with the coil ring portion including a coil with wire sections that overlap one another and are yieldably shiftable away from each other;

FIG. 35 is an elevation of the connector ring shown in FIG. 34, showing wire sections with offset end portions spaced apart from each other;

FIG. 36 is a cross section of the connector ring taken along line 36-36 in FIG. 35; and

FIG. 37 is a cross section of the connector ring taken along line 37-37 in FIG. 35.

The drawing figures do not limit the present invention to the specific embodiments disclosed and described herein. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the preferred embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Turning initially to FIGS. 30 and 31, a connector ring 50 is configured to removably attach an identification tag 52 to a pet collar 54. The ring 50 is preferably operable to permit convenient coupling and uncoupling of the tag 52 and the collar 54 while restricting inadvertent uncoupling of the tag 52 and collar 54.

It will be appreciated that the ring 50 is particularly suited for mounting one or more tags onto a pet collar. However, the ring 50 is equally well suited for holding or connecting various types of items that include an opening. For example, the ring 50 is operable to hold one or more keys (such as a key to a door handle, a stand-alone lock, or an automobile).

The ring 50 preferably comprises a flexible body 55 having a unitary wire construction (see FIGS. 1-3). As will be described in greater detail, the body 55 includes a base ring portion 56 a and a coil ring portion 56 b.

Collar and Tag

Turning to FIGS. 15, 16, 30, and 31, the collar 54 comprises a conventional pet collar (e.g., a dog collar) and includes a flexible strap 58, male and female connectors 60,62, and a metal collar ring 64 in the form of a D-ring. The collar ring 64 is preferably unitary and includes a relatively straight base portion and a curved portion. The collar ring 64 also presents an opening 66 with an opening dimension D1 (see FIG. 31). The opening 66 is operable to receive the strap 58 and the connector ring 50. In the usual manner, the collar ring 64 is secured to the strap 58 so that the collar ring 64 can pivot about an axis of the base portion.

Although the construction of the collar ring 64 is preferred, the collar ring 64 could be variously configured for use with the connector ring 50. For instance, the collar ring could have a circular shape.

Turning to FIGS. 4-6, the tag 52 is also conventional and is configured to present indicia (not shown). The tag 52 presents opposite surfaces 68 operable to receive the indicia. The tag 52 also presents a tag opening 70 with a diameter dimension D2. The tag opening 70 extends between the surfaces 68 and is sized and configured to receive the ring 50.

The tag 52 and the collar ring 64 both comprise items that can be removably attached to the connector ring 50. As noted above, the connector ring 50 can receive other items that have an opening through which the ring 50 can be inserted.

Connector Ring

Turning to FIGS. 1-3, the body 55 of the connector ring 50 preferably comprises a unitary piece of metal wire formed to define the ring portions 56 a,b. The ring portions 56 a,b are configured to slidably receive the tag 52 and collar ring 64. The ring portion 56 b preferably includes a wire coil 72. As described below, the body 55 also preferably includes wire sections 74 a,b that overlap along part of the axial length thereof to cooperatively define the wire coil 72. The illustrated body 55 is preferably flexible to permit yieldable shifting of the wire sections 74 a,b relative to one another.

The body 55 also preferably presents an outermost ring perimeter 76. As will be described, the wire sections 74 include end portions that extend away (most preferably inwardly) from the ring perimeter 76.

Base Ring Portion

The base ring portion 56 a preferably acts as a base to support the coil ring portion 56 b and includes a unitary section of metal wire. In the depicted embodiment, the wire sections 74 a,b cooperatively form the ring portion 56 a so that the ring portion 56 a is defined by a single wire loop.

Because the wire sections 74 cooperatively form the ring portion 56 a, the disclosed body 55 permits an item to be moved between the ring portions 56 a,b. In some alternative embodiments, the base ring portion could be defined by only one of the wire sections or by structure other than wire sections.

The unitary wire loop of the illustrated ring portion 56 a is generally U-shaped and is configured to yieldably flex as the ring 50 is selectively opened and closed. More particularly, the overall shape of the base ring portion 56 a is defined by symmetrical sides that initially diverge away from the coil ring portion 56 b and then converge to an endmost apex. This configuration facilitates placement of the item (such as the tag 52) at the end of the base ring portion 56 a. The sides of the illustrated base ring portion 56 a preferably converge so that the endmost apex is centered laterally between the sides. Consequently, the base ring portion 56 a is shaped to urge the item (such as tag 52) into a centered position between the sides. However, for some aspects of the present invention, at least one of the sides of the base ring portion 56 a could be alternatively shaped. The ring portion 56 a presents a longitudinal wire axis A1 along which the item (such as tag 52 and collar ring 64) can slide.

While the base ring portion 56 a preferably has a U-shaped arrangement that does not overlap itself, the base ring portion 56 a could include a coil structure with overlapping wire sections. For instance, the base ring portion 56 a could include a coil structure similar to the coil 72.

Although the wire structure of the base ring portion 56 a is preferred, at least part of the base ring portion could include an alternative structure to support the ring portion 56 b. For example, the base ring portion could have an alternative overall or cross-sectional shape without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, the overall shape of the base ring portion could be an alternative polygonal shape or be semicircular. Certain aspects of the present invention similarly encompass alternative wire cross-sectional shapes (e.g., polygonal, oblong, etc.). It will be appreciated that such an alternative base structure can be constructed to be yieldably flexible or substantially inflexible (e.g., to suitably control flexing of the wire sections 74 a,b).

In the present embodiment, the cylindrical wire forming the ring portions 56 a,b comprises a unitary and continuous structure. The depicted wire is generally formed by cutting (or otherwise removing) a single wire section from a larger length of wire. However, the wire could be formed by welding (or otherwise fixing) multiple wire sections together to form the depicted unitary wire construction.

The cylindrical wire forming the ring portions 56 a,b has generally the same flexibility throughout the length of the wire. That is, the ring portions 56 a,b both have wire with a flexibility that is substantially constant along the wire length.

It will be appreciated that the ring portions 56 a,b could have wire structures with different amounts of flexibility. For instance, ring portion 56 a could have a wire structure that is relatively less flexible compared to the wire structure of the ring portion 56 b. Also, the ring portion 56 a could have a wire structure that is relatively more flexible compared to the wire structure of the ring portion 56.

Yet further, in alternative embodiments where the ring includes a ring structure other than a cylindrical wire, the ring structure could be more or less flexible than the wire structure of the ring. In one such alternative example, each of the wire sections 74 a,b could be attached to and interconnected by a ring section that is inflexible (i.e., rigid).

The ring portions 56 preferably comprise a stainless steel wire material that is yieldably flexible to permit use of the ring. The principles of the present invention are also applicable where the ring portions include one or more alternative materials, such as an alternative metal material (e.g., alloy carbon steel) or a synthetic resin material.

As used herein, a “wire” is not necessarily limited to a wire-type structure made of a metallic material. Rather, according to some aspects of the present invention, a “wire” can include a nonmetallic material, such as a synthetic resin material.

In the illustrated embodiment, the connector ring 50 has an elongated shape and presents ring sides 78 that extend between opposite ends 80 a,b of the ring 50. The ring portions 56 a,b define corresponding ends 80 a,b. Each side 78 is cooperatively formed by the ring portions 56 a,b. In the illustrated embodiment, the sides 78 cooperatively present a width dimension W (see FIG. 2) that tapers continuously from a location of maximum width defined on the ring portion 56 a. The width dimension tapers continuously from the maximum width location toward the end 80 a and toward the end 80 b.

However, the connector ring could have an alternative elongated ring shape, as shown in subsequent embodiments, without departing from the ambit of the present invention. Yet further, the ring could have another alternative ring shape, such as circular ring shape or a polygonal ring shape that is less elongated than the depicted embodiments.

Coil Ring Portion

Referring again to FIGS. 1-3, the coil ring portion 56 b preferably includes the wire coil 72. The wire coil 72 presents a longitudinal coil axis A2 (see FIG. 2) along which the item can slide. The wire coil 72 is preferably cooperatively defined by the wire sections 74 a,b. The depicted wire sections 74 a,b extend along the coil axis A2 to cooperatively form an overlapped coil segment 82. The wire sections 74 a,b extend axially alongside one another along the coil segment 82 to restrict movement of a ring-shaped item (such as the collar ring 64) along the coil axis A2.

In the depicted embodiment, the wire sections 74 a,b overlap one another along the coil segment 82 and preferably engage one another along the coil segment in an unflexed condition (see FIGS. 1 and 3). The unflexed condition is associated with a condition where no external flexing force is being applied to the body 55. However, it is also within the ambit of the present invention where the wire sections 74 a,b are partly or entirely spaced apart from one another in the unflexed condition.

The illustrated wire sections 74 a,b of the coil segment 82 are preferably positioned relative to one another along a coil turn axis A3 (see FIG. 3) in an overlappng arrangement. However, it will be appreciated that the wire sections 74 a,b could be alternatively positioned alongside one another while still being “overlapped.” For instance, the wire sections of the coil segment could be overlapped so that one wire section is located at least partly radially outside the other wire section, relative to the coil turn axis A3.

The wire sections 74 a,b are yieldably shiftable away from each other (see FIG. 1) into a range of open positions. In an open condition, the wire sections 74 a,b define a space 84 therebetween through which an item (such as the tag 42 and ring 64) can move along the coil axis A2 (see FIGS. 5, 6, 8, and 9). As will be discussed, the space 84 permits the item to be received on one of the wire sections 74 a,b and slide through the space 84 along the coil segment 82.

The coil segment 82 of the coil ring portion 56 b preferably has a curved shape with symmetrical sides that converge toward the end 80 b to form an endmost apex. This shape facilitates placement of the item (such as the collar ring 64) at the end 80 b. The sides of the coil segment 82 preferably converge so that the endmost apex is centered laterally between the sides of the coil segment 82. Consequently, the coil ring portion 56 b is shaped to urge the item (such as collar ring 64) into a centered position between the sides of the coil segment 82. However, for some aspects of the present invention, at least one of the sides of the coil segment 82 could be alternatively shaped.

In the illustrated embodiment, each wire section 74 a,b preferably turns off axis relative to the other wire section 74 a,b at a corresponding location 86 a,b (see FIGS. 1 and 2). The wire sections 74 a,b each preferably turn off axis to form respective offset end portions 88 a,b. The offset end portions 88 a,b preferably cooperatively define a ring opening when the body 55 is in an open condition, as will be described below.

The wire sections 74 a,b are configured for prying engagement by the item (such as the tag 52 or collar ring 64) generally at either of the locations 86 a,b. As will be discussed further, the item can be forced into engagement with the wire sections 74 a,b at one of the locations 86 to act essentially as a cam to pry the wire sections apart proximate the location. Such action facilitates shifting of the wire sections 74 a,b away from one another along the overlapped coil segment 82.

Each offset end portion 88 a,b preferably extends away from the overlapped coil segment 82. Although not shown in the illustrated embodiment, it will be appreciated that an offset end portion could extend away from the coil segment and then turn back onto itself or otherwise extend back toward the coil segment.

Each wire section 74 a,b also preferably extends away from the perimeter 76. As depicted, each wire section 74 a,b preferably turns inwardly relative to the perimeter 76 to form the corresponding offset end portion 88 a,b.

Although not shown in the illustrated embodiment, it will be appreciated that an offset end portion could extend away from the perimeter and then turn back onto itself or otherwise extend back toward the perimeter.

It is also within the scope of the present invention where one or both of the wire sections 74 a,b turn outwardly relative to the perimeter 76 to form the respective offset end portion 88 a,b. Yet further, at least one of the wire sections 74 a,b could turn inwardly relative to the perimeter 76 along one region and outwardly relative to the perimeter 76 along another region.

Each offset end portion 88 a,b preferably terminates at a corresponding wire end 90 a,b spaced from the overlapped coil segment 82 (see FIG. 1).

In the illustrated embodiment, the wire end 90 a,b preferably provides a terminal end of the offset end portion. Each of the terminal ends is preferably spaced from the coil segment 82. As will be explained below, the terminal ends also cooperate with the opposite portion of the corresponding wire section 74 a,b to define a gap.

However, it is within the ambit of the present invention where another part of the end portion 88 a,b defines the respective terminal end. For instance, the end portion could include a bend (i.e., a turn in the wire) that provides a terminal end of the offset end portion. For instance, the terminal end could be formed where the offset end portion turns back onto itself or otherwise extends back toward the overlapped coil segment or perimeter. However, the terminal ends are most preferably defined by the wire ends 90 a,b.

The illustrated wire sections 74 a,b are preferably configured so that the end portions 88 a,b are located entirely within the perimeter 76. In the depicted embodiment, the wire sections 74 a,b other than end portions 88 a,b define the perimeter 76.

It is also within the scope of the present invention where at least part of an alternative offset end portion is located outside of the perimeter 76. As discussed below, the wire end of one such end portion could be located outside of the perimeter. In another alternative embodiment, the wire section could extend outwardly and then inwardly so that the wire end is within the perimeter but part of the corresponding end portion is outside of the perimeter.

Again, the illustrated wire ends 90 a,b are located inside the perimeter 76. For some aspects of the present invention, at least one of the offset end portions could be alternatively shaped and positioned so that the corresponding wire end is positioned outside the perimeter 76. For instance, an alternative end portion could span the area from one side 78 to the other side 78 and extend beyond the perimeter 76 so that the wire end is located outside of the perimeter. Alternatively, the end portion 88 could be folded onto itself so that a terminal end of the offset end portion is within the perimeter and the wire end is outside the perimeter.

It will also be appreciated that only one of the wire sections 74 could include an offset end portion. That is, one of the wire sections 74 could include an offset end portion while the other wire section is devoid of an offset end portion. For example, one wire section could be terminated such that an end portion thereof is not offset relative to the other wire section, but extends axially alongside the other wire section (e.g., along the coil segment 82).

In the illustrated embodiment, each wire end 90 a,b preferably provides a terminal end of the offset end portion 88 a,b. The terminal end is preferably spaced from the coil segment 82. The terminal end also cooperates with an opposite portion of the wire section 74 to define a minimum gap G.

However, it is within the ambit of the present invention where another part of the end portion defines the gap. For instance, the end portion could include a bend that provides a terminal end of the offset end portion. That is, the end portion could have a bend that cooperates with the opposite portion to define the gap.

Each wire end 90 a,b preferably has a semispherical shape to allow the items to pass smoothly through the gap G. The rounded shape of the wire end 90 also preferably restricts the end portion 88 from snagging or damaging another structure (such as the item).

Each wire section 74 a,b preferably includes a portion thereof located opposite the respective offset end portion 88 a,b, with the end portion 88 a,b and the corresponding opposite portion defining the gap G therebetween (see FIG. 2). The gap G permits items (such as the collar ring 64) to pass therethrough to allow item movement from one of the ring portions 56 a,b to the other ring portion 56 a,b. However, for some aspects of the present invention, at least one of the end portions and the corresponding opposite portion could be removably engaged with one another so that no gap is formed therebetween (e.g., where an alternative end portion spans the area from one side of the ring to the other side). Even in such an alternative configuration, the end portion could be flexed out of engagement with the opposite portion to permit sliding movement of the item from one of the ring portions 56 a,b to the other ring portion 56 a,b.

The offset end portions 88 a,b present an offset length dimension L (see FIG. 2). As will be described, the length of the offset end portions 88 a,b restricts movement of at least some items (such as the tag 52) from a position where the item is received on the base ring portion 56 a to a position where the item is received on both wire sections 74 a,b of the coil ring portion 56 b.

Arrangement and Cooperation of Offset End Portions

Preferably, the offset end portions 88 a,b at least partly extend alongside each other and are partly overlapped with one another. In the depicted embodiment, the wire ends 90 a,b are located adjacent to each other and face in generally opposite directions. However, according to some aspects of the present invention, the wire ends 90 a,b could be alternatively oriented relative to one another.

The illustrated end portions 88 a,b of the coil are preferably positioned relative to one another along the coil turn axis A3 (see FIG. 3) in an overlappng arrangement. However, it will be appreciated that the end portions 88 a,b could be alternatively positioned alongside one another while still being “overlapped.” For instance, the end portions of the coil could be overlapped so that one end portion is located at least partly radially outside the other wire section, relative to the coil turn axis A3.

In the illustrated embodiment, the end portion 88 b preferably spans the gap G defined by end portion 88 a and partly overlaps the end portion 88 a (see FIGS. 1 and 2). However, it will be appreciated that the end portion 88 b could span the gap G without overlapping the end portion 88 a. Furthermore, as will be shown in a subsequent embodiment, the end portions could be nonoverlapping.

In an open condition, the offset end portions cooperatively define a ring opening 92 configured to receive at least part of an item therethrough. For instance, the ring opening 92 is configured to receive a portion of the tag (see FIGS. 5-8) and the collar ring 64 (see FIGS. 16-19). In this manner, the ring opening 92 permits the item to be received on one of the end portions 88 a,b.

The offset end portions 88 a,b cooperatively define a minimum open condition (not shown) where the end portions 88 a,b are minimally spaced apart to define the ring opening 92. In the minimum open condition, the end portions 88 a,b cooperatively prevent the item from passing through the ring opening 92. The body 55 is preferably flexible so that the ring opening 92 is expandable from the minimum open condition to thereby permit the item to pass therethrough. In the depicted embodiment, the offset end portions 88 a,b preferably engage one another to close the ring opening 92 when in the unflexed condition, such that the minimum open condition is actually not open but rather closed.

Thus, the shape of the body 55 in the minimum open condition is generally slightly different than the body shape in the unflexed condition, although such a difference may be visually imperceptible. However, in some alternative embodiments, the offset end portions may be normally spaced apart in the unflexed condition so that any contact therebetween is caused by flexing the body. For instance, the end portions 88 a,b could be arranged in the minimum open condition when the body is in the unflexed condition.

The configuration of the offset end portions 88 a,b preferably provides a pry point 94 (see FIGS. 1, 2, 4, and 15) which is similar to the locations 86 a,b. In particular, the pry point 94 provides an access location at which the item can be forced between the end portions 88 a,b to expand the ring opening 92. At the same time, the configuration of the end portions 88 a,b prevents the wire ends 90 from being exposed to exterior objects and thereby minimizes damaging contact (e.g., snags, abrasion, pinching, etc.) against exterior objects by the wire ends 90.

In an alternative embodiment, the ring opening could be partly defined by a single offset end portion. For instance, an offset end portion could extend to an opposite portion of the wire section and beyond the perimeter. In such an alternative embodiment, the ring opening is defined by the offset end portion and the opposite portion of the wire section.

Positioning the Item on the Body

Preferably, the offset end portions 88 a,b are each operable to be engaged by the item (such as the tag 52 or collar ring 64) to shift the end portions 88 a,b away from one another. As discussed above, the pry point 94 provides an access location at which the item can be forced between the end portions 88 a,b to expand the ring opening 92. When shifted away from one another to enlarge the ring opening 92, the end portions 88 a,b permit items to pass into and out of the ring opening 92.

With the end portions 88 a,b shifted away from each other, the tag 52 (see FIGS. 4 and 5) and the collar ring 64 (see FIGS. 15 and 16) can each be shifted onto one of the end portions 88 a,b (e.g., to move the item into the space 84 between the wire sections 74 a,b).

As will be discussed, the end portions 88 a,b can also be shifted away from each other to permit at least some items to be moved between a position received on the base ring portion 56 a and a position received on both wire sections 74 a,b of the coil ring portion 56 b.

Moving the Item Relative to the Coil Segment

When an item, such as the tag 52, is located on one of the end portions 88 a,b and received in the ring opening 92, the item can be moved along the depicted end portion 88 a,b toward the corresponding one of the locations 86 a,b. Such movement causes the item to move out of the ring opening 92. Although not depicted in the illustrated embodiment, movement of the item out of the ring opening 92 and toward the corresponding location 86 a,b can, in some instances, permit the wire sections 74 a,b to shift toward each other and even return to the unflexed position.

With the item (such as the tag 52 or collar ring 64) positioned on one of the end portions 88 a,b and moved out of the ring opening 92, the wire sections 74 a,b are configured for prying engagement by the item generally at the location 86 a,b. For instance, the tag 52 can be engaged with the wire sections 74 a,b at the location 86 to facilitate shifting of the wire sections 74 a,b away from one another along the overlapped coil segment 82 (see FIGS. 7, 9, and 10). Similarly, the collar ring 64 can be engaged with the wire sections 74 a,b at the location 86 to facilitate shifting of the wire sections 74 a,b away from one another (see FIGS. 20-22). By prying and shifting the wire sections 74 a,b away from each other, the space 84 is preferably expanded to receive the corresponding item. This permits the item to be moved onto the corresponding wire section 74 a,b of the coil segment 82. Similarly, the item can be moved from the wire section 74 a,b of the coil segment 82 to the corresponding end portion 88 a,b.

Again, the space 84 permits the item to be received on one of the wire sections 74 a,b. The space 84 also permits the item to be advanced through the space 84 along the length of the coil segment 82 while being received on the corresponding wire section 74 a,b. In the illustrated embodiment, the tag 52 (see FIGS. 10-12) and the collar ring 64 (see FIGS. 23 and 24) can each be advanced through the space 84 along the coil segment 82.

Moving the Item Relative to the Base Ring Portion

The body 55 is preferably constructed so that items received on one of the wire sections 74 a,b can be moved from one ring portion 56 a,b to the other ring portion 56 a,b. That is, the item can move between the ring portions 56 a,b while being slidably mounted on one of the wire sections 74 a,b. For instance, when the tag 52 or the collar ring 64 is slidably mounted on one of the wire sections 74 a,b of the coil ring portion 56 b and extends through the space 84, the tag 52 (see FIGS. 13 and 14) and collar ring 64 (see FIGS. 23-26) can each be shifted along the wire section 74 a,b onto the base ring portion 56 a.

In a similar manner, when the tag 52 or the collar ring 64 (or another item) is slidably mounted on the base ring portion 56 a, the item can be shifted to the corresponding wire section 74 a,b of the coil ring portion 56 b. This is done by engaging the item with the wire sections 74 a,b at the respective location 86 to facilitate shifting of the wire sections 74 a,b away from one another along the overlapped coil segment 82 (see FIGS. 7, 9, and 10). By prying and shifting the wire sections 74 a,b away from each other, the space 84 is expanded to again receive the item.

Positioning the Item on Both Wire Sections of the Coil Ring Portion

Again, when the end portions 88 a,b are shifted away from each other, at least some items can be moved from a position received on the base ring portion 56 a to a position received on both wire sections 74 a,b of the coil ring portion 56 b. For example, the collar ring 64 can engage the offset end portions 88 a,b to shift the end portions 88 a,b away from one another (see FIGS. 26-29). Again, the item is preferably forced between the end portions 88 a,b at the pry point 94 to expand the ring opening 92. When shifted away from one another to enlarge the ring opening 92, the end portions 88 a,b permit the collar ring 64 to pass therebetween through the ring opening 92. Because the collar ring 64 has an opening with a dimension D1 larger than the length dimension L, the collar ring 64 can pass through the ring opening 92 and be positioned on both wire sections 74 a,b of the coil ring portion 56 b (see FIGS. 29-31).

Similarly, when the end portions 88 a,b are shifted away from each other, at least some items can be moved from a position received on both wire sections 74 a,b of the coil ring portion 56 b to a position received on the base ring portion 56 a. For instance, the collar ring 64 can engage the offset end portions 88 a,b at the pry point 94 to shift the end portions 88 a,b away from one another (see FIGS. 26-29) and enlarge the ring opening 92. The collar ring 64 can then pass through the ring opening 92 to be positioned on the base ring portion 56 a.

The end portions 88 a,b are preferably located adjacent to one another to restrict movement of at least some items (such as the tag 52) from a position received on the base ring portion 56 a to a position received on both wire sections 74 a,b of the coil ring portion 56 b. Again, the offset end portions 88 a,b present the offset length dimension L (see FIG. 2). Because the tag 52 has a tag opening 70 with a dimension D2 smaller than the length dimension L, each offset end portion 88 a,b restricts the tag 52 from being shifted from the base ring portion 56 a to a position received on both wire sections 74 a,b of the coil ring portion 56 b. The offset end portions 88 a,b are also configured to restrict such movement of other items with an item opening that is smaller than the length dimension L.

Removing Item from the Body

The body 55 is configured to permit convenient removal of one or more items from the connector ring 50 while restricting inadvertent item removal. For an item (such as the collar ring 64) received on both wire sections 74 a,b of the illustrated coil ring portion 56 b, the item can only be removed from the body 55 by first moving the item to the base ring portion 56 a. In particular, the item is moved from a position on both wire sections 74 a,b of the coil ring portion 56 b into engagement with the end portions 88 a,b at the pry point 94 to enlarge the ring opening 92. The item can then be shifted through the ring opening 92 and onto the base ring portion 56 a.

An item received on the base ring portion 56 a can be removed from the body 55 by engaging the item with the wire sections 74 a,b at one of the locations 86. As described above, prying engagement with the wire sections 74 a,b facilitates shifting of the wire sections 74 a,b away from one another along the overlapped coil segment 82, particularly at the location 86 (see FIGS. 7, 9, and 10). By prying and shifting the wire sections 74 a,b away from each other, the space 84 is expanded so that the item can be moved along the coil segment 82 on one of the wire sections 74 a,b and to the other location 86.

The item can then be moved from the wire section 74 a,b of the coil segment 82 to the corresponding end portion 88 a,b. The final step of removal involves moving the item into engagement with the end portions 88 a,b at the pry point 94 to enlarge the ring opening 92. The item can then be shifted through the ring opening 92 and removed entirely from the body 55.

When the tag 52 (or another item) is mounted on the base ring portion 56 a and the collar ring 64 (or another item) is mounted on both wire sections 74 a,b of the coil ring portion 56 b, the collar ring 64 serves to “lock” the tag 52 on the body 55 and restrict removal therefrom by restricting movement of the tag along the coil segment 82. In the illustrated embodiment, when the collar ring 64 is positioned adjacent the end 80 b presented by the ring portion 56 b (see FIGS. 30 and 31), the assembly is in a locked condition where the collar ring 64 prevents the tag 52 from being shifted along the length of the coil segment 82 for removal. The body 55 can be selectively “unlocked” to permit removal of the tag 52 by moving the collar ring 64 from the position on both wire sections 74 a,b of the coil ring portion 56 b to a position on the base ring portion 56 b, as discussed above.

However, it will be appreciated that the illustrated assembly of the body 55, tag 52, and collar ring 64 can be manipulated to permit removal of the tag 52 from the body 55 while shifting the collar ring 64 to one or more other positions on the coil ring portion 56 b. For instance, as the tag 52 is advanced onto and along the coil segment 82 for removal, the collar ring 64 can be shifted away from the end 80 b and the tag 52 to provide room along the coil segment 82 for tag advancement and removal. To enable such manipulation, the illustrated collar ring 64 is sized to permit the collar ring 64 to be swung downwardly so that the straight base portion of the collar ring 64 is located adjacent to the end 80 a. That is, the collar ring 64 can be swung to an inverted position relative to the position shown in FIGS. 30 and 31.

However, in at least some alternative embodiments, the body 55, tag 52, and/or collar ring 64 could be alternatively configured so that no amount of manipulation of these components will permit removal of the tag 52 from the body 55 while the assembly is locked (i.e., the collar ring 64 is mounted on both wire sections 74 a,b of the coil ring portion 56 b). For instance, when using an alternative collar ring much smaller than collar ring 64 (e.g., where the dimension D1 is approximately the same as the length dimension L), the alternative collar ring prevents the tag 52 from being removed from the body 55 for substantially any orientation of the alternative collar ring.

Alternative Embodiments

Turning to FIGS. 32 and 33, an alternative connector ring 200 is constructed in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the present invention. For the sake of brevity, the remaining description will focus primarily on the differences of this embodiment from the preferred embodiment described above.

The ring 200 preferably includes a body 202 having a unitary wire construction. Preferably, the illustrated body 202 includes an alternative base ring portion 204 a and an alternative coil ring portion 204 b.

As with the previous embodiment, the ring portions 204 a,b are configured to slidably receive various items. The base ring portion 204 a comprises a unitary wire loop that is generally U-shaped. The depicted base ring portion 204 a presents a shape that is different than the base ring portion of the previous embodiment. In particular, the width dimension W of the base ring portion 204 a is substantially continuous along the length of the base ring portion 204 a, except for the apexed end of the base ring portion 204 a.

The coil ring portion 204 b preferably includes a wire coil 206 defined by overlapping portions of the wire sections 208 a,b. Compared to the previous embodiment, the wire coil 206 is also generally triangular in shape, although the wire coil shapes are different. The wire sections 208 a,b cooperatively form an overlapped coil segment 210.

The wire sections 208 a,b also include alternative offset end portions 212 a,b. Similar to the previous embodiment, each wire section 208 a,b turns off axis relative to the other wire section 208 a,b at a location to form the respective offset end portion 212 a,b.

As in the previous embodiment, the end portions 212 a,b partly overlap and engage one another. In an open condition, the end portions 212 a,b cooperatively define a ring opening configured to receive at least a portion of an item therethrough. The ring opening permits the item to be received on one of the end portions 212 a,b.

The end portions 212 a,b are configured to prevent an item from passing through the ring opening when the ring 200 is in a minimum open condition, which in this embodiment corresponds with the ring opening being closed (i.e., with the end portions 212 a,b engaged). The body 202 is preferably flexible so that the ring opening is expandable from the minimum open condition to any of a range of open conditions.

Turning to FIGS. 34-37, an alternative connector ring 300 is constructed in accordance with a third preferred embodiment of the present invention. For the sake of brevity, the remaining description will focus primarily on the differences of this embodiment from the second preferred ring embodiment described above.

The ring 300 preferably includes a body 302 having a unitary wire construction. Preferably, the body 302 includes a base ring portion 304 a and an alternative coil ring portion 304 b.

The ring portion 304 b preferably includes a wire coil 306 defined by portions of alternative wire sections 308 a,b. The wire sections 308 a,b include alternative offset end portions 310 a,b. Compared to the previous embodiments, the end portions 310 a,b do not overlap one another. Furthermore, the end portions 310 a,b are spaced apart.

The end portions 310 a,b cooperatively define a ring opening 312 configured to receive at least a portion of an item therethrough. The end portions 310 a,b are configured to restrict the item from passing through the ring opening 312 when the ring 200 is in a minimum open condition (see FIGS. 34-37). For at least some items, it is possible that the item can be passed through the ring opening 312 without flexing the body 302. However, the body 202 is preferably flexible so that the ring opening 312 is expandable from the minimum open condition to any of a range of open conditions. As a result, the opening 312 can be expanded as necessary to facilitate movement of the item onto (or off of) one of the offset end portions 310 a,b.

Although the above description presents features of preferred embodiments of the present invention, other preferred embodiments may also be created in keeping with the principles of the invention. Such other preferred embodiments may, for instance, be provided with features drawn from one or more of the embodiments described above. Yet further, such other preferred embodiments may include features from multiple embodiments described above, particularly where such features are compatible for use together despite having been presented independently as part of separate embodiments in the above description.

The preferred forms of the invention described above are to be used as illustration only, and should not be utilized in a limiting sense in interpreting the scope of the present invention. Obvious modifications to the exemplary embodiments, as hereinabove set forth, could be readily made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

The inventors hereby state their intent to rely on the Doctrine of Equivalents to determine and assess the reasonably fair scope of the present invention as pertains to any apparatus not materially departing from but outside the literal scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A connector ring operable to removably connect items that each present an item opening, said connector ring comprising: a body including first and second ring portions, with each of the ring portions being configured to extend through the item opening of a corresponding item, said first ring portion including a wire coil that presents a longitudinal coil axis, said wire coil being defined by wire sections and including an overlapped coil segment along which the wire sections extend axially alongside one another to restrict movement of the corresponding item along the coil axis, said body being configured such that the wire sections are yieldably shiftable away from each other along the overlapped coil segment to define a space through which the corresponding item can move along the coil axis, one of said wire sections turning off axis relative to the other wire section at a location to form an offset end portion that extends away from the overlapped coil segment, with the wire sections being configured for prying engagement by the corresponding item generally at the location to facilitate shifting of the wire sections away from one another along the overlapped coil segment.
 2. The connector ring as claimed in claim 1, said body presenting an outermost ring perimeter, said offset end portion extending away from the perimeter.
 3. The connector ring as claimed in claim 2, said offset end portion extending inwardly relative to the perimeter.
 4. The connector ring as claimed in claim 3, said offset end portion presenting a terminal end spaced from the ring perimeter.
 5. The connector ring as claimed in claim 4, said terminal end being defined by a wire end.
 6. The connector ring as claimed in claim 5, said wire end being semispherically shaped.
 7. The connector ring as claimed in claim 3, said offset end portion partly defining a ring opening that is configured to receive at least a portion of the corresponding item therethrough so that the corresponding item may be received on the first ring portion.
 8. The connector ring as claimed in claim 7, said body being configured to prevent the corresponding item from passing through the ring opening when in a minimum open condition, said body being flexible so that the ring opening is expandable from the minimum open condition to thereby permit the corresponding item to pass therethrough.
 9. The connector ring as claimed in claim 3, said second ring portion being at least partly defined by at least one of the wire sections so as to permit the corresponding item to be moved between the ring portions.
 10. The connector ring as claimed in claim 9, said wire sections cooperatively forming the second ring portion such that the second ring portion is defined by a single wire loop.
 11. The connector ring as claimed in claim 1, said offset end portion partly defining a ring opening that is configured to receive at least a portion of the corresponding item therethrough so that the corresponding item may be received on the first ring portion.
 12. The connector ring as claimed in claim 11, said body being configured to prevent the corresponding item from passing through the ring opening when in a minimum open condition, said body being flexible so that the ring opening is expandable from the minimum open condition to thereby permit the corresponding item to pass therethrough.
 13. The connector ring as claimed in claim 11, said offset end portion presenting a terminal end spaced from the coil segment, said ring opening being defined in part by the terminal end.
 14. The connector ring as claimed in claim 1, said second ring portion being at least partly defined by at least one of the wire sections so as to permit the corresponding item to be moved between the ring portions.
 15. The connector ring as claimed in claim 14, said wire sections cooperatively forming the second ring portion such that the second ring portion is defined by a single wire loop.
 16. The connector ring as claimed in claim 1, said offset end portion presenting a terminal end spaced from the coil segment.
 17. The connector ring as claimed in claim 16, said terminal end being defined by a wire end.
 18. The connector ring as claimed in claim 17, said wire end being semispherically shaped.
 19. The connector ring as claimed in claim 1, said other wire section turning off axis relative to said one wire section at a second location to form a second offset end portion that extends away from the overlapped coil segment, with the wire sections being configured for prying engagement by the corresponding item generally at the second location to facilitate shifting of the wire sections away from one another along the overlapped coil segment.
 20. The connector ring as claimed in claim 19, said offset end portions cooperatively defining a ring opening that is configured to receive at least a portion of the corresponding item therethrough so that the corresponding item may be received on the first ring portion.
 21. The connector ring as claimed in claim 20, said body being configured to prevent the corresponding item from passing through the ring opening when in a minimum open condition, said body being flexible so that the ring opening is expandable from the minimum open condition to thereby permit the corresponding item to pass therethrough.
 22. The connector ring as claimed in claim 21, said offset end portions extending at least partly alongside one another so as to be at least partly overlapped, said offset end portions being yieldably shiftable away from one another to define the ring opening therebetween.
 23. The connector ring as claimed in claim 22, said body presenting an outermost ring perimeter, said offset end portions extending inwardly relative to the perimeter toward one another.
 24. The connector ring as claimed in claim 23, said offset end portions each presenting a terminal end spaced inwardly from the ring perimeter.
 25. The connector ring as claimed in claim 24, each of said terminal ends being defined by a wire end.
 26. The connector ring as claimed in claim 25, each of said wire ends being semispherically shaped.
 27. The connector ring as claimed in claim 19, said body presenting an outermost ring perimeter, said offset end portions extending away from the perimeter.
 28. The connector ring as claimed in claim 27, said offset end portions extending inwardly relative to the perimeter toward one another.
 29. The connector ring as claimed in claim 19, said offset end portions each presenting a terminal end spaced from the ring perimeter.
 30. The connector ring as claimed in claim 29, each of said terminal ends being defined by a wire end.
 31. The connector ring as claimed in claim 30, each of said wire ends being semispherically shaped.
 32. The connector ring as claimed in claim 1, said wire sections being formed as part of a unitary wire that defines the ring portions. 